Michelle VanSchelven works at Trekk Cross Media in Downtown Rockford. She's been on the job only a month now and already knows she wants to stay for the long-term. "I just saw the opportunity at Trekk as a good fit with my skills and what I want to do in advancement," VanSchelven said. The 33 year-old Rockton native found that opportunity last fall during a special job fair to lure young educated professionals back to the Stateline. Local economic development leaders say that demographic is needed to develop future wealth and jobs for the region. VanSchelven, who lived in the Chicago area for more than 10 years, admits that she was a little skeptical about the job fair. But that day, luck was on her side. "Our goal was to move back to the Rockford area, so the only way that could happen was to have really good jobs here," VanSchelven said. Now that she and her husband have those good jobs, VanSchelven is looking forward to being home, especially with a growing family. "We have nephews and nieces now. Just coming home on the weekend wasn't cutting it," VanSchelven said. She also says the Rockford area has something to offer people like her when she's not at her desk. "I'm excited to be on the bike paths and do some outdoor things," VanSchelven said.
VanSchelven says friends from the city are actually showing some envy about her move back home, a move she says Is penciled in for good. VanSchelven and her husband are currently looking at houses in the area. Mike she says another draw of coming home is more affordable housing and larger available homes.